Design participativo como estratégia de incentivo à entrada de meninas em cursos de tecnologia da informação: um estudo em Pentecoste-Ce

Abstract

This study aims to propose and develop a prototype of an educational website and a printed guide, using a Participatory Design approach, in order to encourage high school girls from public vocational and regular schools in the municipality of Pentecoste to pursue careers in the field of Information Technology. The research is based on the observation that the low female representation in IT courses and careers is associated with social, cultural, and educational factors, such as gender stereotypes, the lack of female role models, and insufficient encouragement during the school years. The methodology adopted is qualitative and exploratory in nature, consisting of semi-structured interviews with high school students and the application of Participatory Design as a strategy to involve the target audience in the solution design process. Data collection made it possible to identify the participants’ perceptions, interests, barriers, and expectations regarding the technological field. Based on these results, the requirements for the development of two complementary products were defined: an interactive website aimed at presenting Information Technology areas, inspiring stories, and introductory content, and a printed guide designed as support material for use in the school context. The findings indicate that, although the students show interest in technology, this interest is often limited by the lack of information, access, and representativeness. It is concluded that the development of the educational website and the printed guide resulted in a solution aligned with the needs, interests, and expectations of the participating students, configuring itself as an accessible tool to present the field of Information Technology, its career possibilities, and inspiring trajectories. Thus, the proposal stands out as a strategy to expand students’ access to information about Information Technology, stimulate interest in the technological field, and encourage reflection on their future career choices.